An advantage of using 3-D tissues to evaluate phototoxicity potential is that, unlike the 96-well phototoxicity assay, test materials are applied topically, so solids, undiluted final formulations, and insoluble test materials can be tested. RHE tissue constructs are prepared using human epidermal cells, which are cultured on specially designed culture inserts. The cells differentiate to form a fully differentiated epidermis, complete with a functional stratum corneum (see picture below).

MTT, a vital dye, is actively taken up by the tissues and subsequently reduced in the mitochondria of living cells. This chemical reaction produces a purple-colored formazan within the cells, causing the live tissues to turn deep purple in color. The colored dye can be extracted from the cells and the absorbance read spectrophotometrically. For specific assay procedures, please see Step-by-Step.

Assay Design: Quick Facts

Assay Model: organotypic RHE tissue constructs

Endpoint: a 30% reduction in relative viability in treated tissues in the presence of UVA exposure relative to treated tissues in the absence of UVA exposure is predictive of phototoxic potential.

For more information about testing your materials using this assay, please see Applications.
Specialized protocols may be prepared as requested through consultation with an IIVS Study Director.